Picture this: freshman year of college, boy meets girl June 8th, 2003. Fast forward ten years (to the very day!) they marry with the loveliest oceanside wedding you’ve probably ever seen. And on top of the coincidental cuteness, these two happened to handpick a crew of vendors that can’t be beat —Hana Floral Design, A Thyme to Cook and Wilson Stevens Productions, just to name a few. It’s classic New England to the core, and the fabulous Tony Spinelli didn’t miss a beat. Grab that coffee and cuddle up in the gallery right here.

From the Bride… Colin and I were engaged in April of 2012, and after a long week away celebrating, we knew if we wanted to get married the following spring in Watch Hill, Rhode Island where my parents live, we needed to pick a venue quickly.

After falling in love with the Jonathan Edwards Winery, we couldn’t imagine getting married anywhere else. As luck would have it, June 8th was the only day open at both the winery and at The Watch Hill Chapel where we wanted to have the ceremony. Call it fate or just some serious coincidence, but after looking through old pictures of when we met at college freshman orientation at Miami University in Ohio, we found the first picture of us, dated June 8th, 2003. 10 years later, exactly to the day, we were going to get to marry each other.

We imagined our day as really being a big celebration of our love that focused on family and close friends that are part of our lives and have helped us become who we are as individuals and as a couple. With so many people coming in from Kansas City, where Colin is from, and around the rest of the country, we wanted everyone to walk away feeling like they had an amazing weekend trip on New England coast.

With the ceremony in a chapel by the water and the reception at the winery under the tent, the settings were already naturally beautiful, and it was easy for our amazing vendors to help bring our “Rustic Elegant” vision to life. After a freak tropical storm hit on Friday and it threatened to dampen our weekend, the sun came out Saturday morning and turned it into the most beautiful early summer day which our amazing photographer Tony Spinelli captured.
We began with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the barn at the winery before moving into the tent, strung with bistro lights. On long farm tables, our guests enjoyed a ‘family style’ dinner of Kansas City rubbed steak local farm grilled vegetables.

Blush and white peonies adorned the table in glass vases and rustic flower boxes, with some of the leaves accented with a hint of brushed gold. Even though we had planned the wedding with our families, there were so many surprises! Before our father/daughter dance, my dad surprised me by singing Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight” to me. During our cake cutting, I surprised Colin with a groom’s carrot cake for his favorite team, KU, handmade by my brother’s girlfriend. Before the party ended, to treat and cool everyone off after spending the night on the dance floor with our unbelievable band Radiance, my parents surprised our guests with Lemon Italian Ices and my mom’s famous oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. She made over 600!

To us, our day was perfect. It was filled with love, laughter, lots of dancing and family, which truly are the reasons we were all together. Thank you to everyone who helped the day a truly magical memory that we will cherish forever.

Photographer: Tony Spinelli Photography | Florist: Hana Floral Design | Gown: Gabriella New York Bridal Salon | Ceremony Venue: Watch Hill Chapel | Reception Venue: Jonathan Edwards Winery | Caterer: A Thyme to Cook, Inc. | Band: Wilson Stevens | Getting Read/Photography Location: Ocean House | Invitations + Save The Dates: Catherine Kiff-Vozza | Make up-Hair: New Leaf Salon

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Hana Floral Design

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We’ve got a pretty amazing Halloween party coming up today in just a few short hours, but before we get there we thought we’d share the recipes that really made this party shine. A huge part of me is totally tempted to sneak into my kitchen and whip up a batch of Waiting on Martha‘s apple & bourbon punch immediately. The only thing stopping me is the fact that it’s 9 am right now… and I’m at work… and that could get slightly awkward. But I swear to you, the second the clock strikes 5, I know exactly what I’ll be making. It’s pretty much Halloween in a glass and I’m all for it.

Jacquelyn ClarkWarm Apple Bourbon PunchA warm and spicy cocktail that pairs perfectly with Halloween

prep time 5 Minute/s

cook time 20 Minute/s

total time 25 Minute/s

Serves 20Ingredients

• 1 gallon(s) (16 cups) Fresh Apple Cider (I use Williams Sonoma Apple Cider Mix)
• Williams Sonoma Mulling Spices
• 3 cup(s) Bourbon
• Apple slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a stockpot combine and heat apple cider concentrate, water, and mulling spices.
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, let cool for 5 minutes, then add bourbon.
4. Garnish with thin cut apple slices and serve.

Photography: Rustic White | Styling: Waiting On Martha

For someone who longs for life in Europe, Oheka Castle is a dream come true. Our very own castle, set close to home, and hello, it’s gorgeous. DM Events dressed the castle up for this beautiful couples wedding and holy cow, Mel Barlow, we’re obsessed with every single image you captured.

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From DM Events… We fell in love with Ame and Mike early on when we realized that one party was just not going to be enough! The gracious couple hosted a party-filled wedding weekend at the stunning Oheka Castle.

The welcome party took place on the lush upper lawn of the estate. The guests, dressed in their best garden party attire, were invited to enjoy a BBQ fete under the stars in a setting we can only describe as garden chic meets BBQ glam! We selected a completely clear tent to ensure guests had unobstructed views of the grandeur of the property and gorgeous sunset. Staying true to our summer garden party concept, we wanted to dress down the tent with wooden farm tables adorned with a linen runner and soft, simple florals. And no garden party is complete without dancing under the stars so we worked with the amazing team at Frost Productions to create a star-filled ceiling of bistro lights.

When it came to the decor for the wedding reception, the couple wanted a design that was elegant, yet reserved. While the Terrace Room at the castle lends itself to being filled with heavy florals, we wanted the evening to feel more soft and romantic, so we chose to design the room around the luxurious feel of candlelight. Half of the tables featured varying sizes of antique silver candlesticks and pedestal candles only, and the room was aglow! We imagine it was illuminated the very same way when the castle was originally built! To complement the luxurious candlelight and lush blooms, we worked with Sesame Letterpress on the stationery suite and fell in love with the sweet coral monogram they created, and we applied throughout the design.

The weekend felt effortlessly perfect and we were elated to see our couple so happy and in love!

Photography: mel barlow & co. | Videographer: Unique Visions Studio | Wedding planning and design: DM Events & Design | Florist: Rebecca Shepherd Floral Design | Stationery: Sesame Letterpress | Calligraphy: Robyn Wylde Calligraphy | Lighting: Frost Productions | Officiant: Jeffrey Kaufman | Ceremony music: Hank Lane Music | Venue: OHEKA CASTLE | Tent: Stamford Tent & Event Services | Friday night music: Hank Lane Music | Hair and Make-up: Blow Dry on the Fly | Lounge Rentals: Taylor Creative Inc. | Rentals: Broadway Party Rentals | Saturday night music: Hank Lane Music | Second Photographer: Ahmet Ze

My favorite wedding ingredient?  Hands down, personality.  Because there’s nothing better than a wedding chock-full of personality-infused details to really give you a glimpse of the couple behind the big day.  And this darling duo captured by Alisia Thompson?  Well, they (and their family and friends) are as crafty as it gets with a whole host of amazing details lovingly styled with their very own talented hands. Think fab paper goods, beautiful florals and glittery gold centerpieces.  See them all right here.

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From the Bride… Romance, Fun and Mingle: Those were the words my husband and I based our wedding on. We knew that adding as many personal touches as we could was the way to achieve that. So with that in mind, we DIY’d almost everything and crafted nearly all of the decorations by hand. It was our way to create a wedding that catered to our style, as well as helped our budget!

It all began with the color peach, which I view as such a romantic, yet playful color. I chose it as the basis for the whole event! My sister designed our invitations, RSVP cards, and bulletins to fit our personalities and promote the theme of our wedding. She also created personalized crossword puzzles, madlibs and the signs that were displayed at our venues. All of the bouquets and florals were arranged by my aunt, who was the one to introduce me to the beautiful type of flower used in my bouquet. I described to her that I wanted a taller arrangement to compliment the flower bunch on my dress. She suggested “stock,” and when I saw a picture of them, I knew immediately that those were what I wanted. Who knew that such a pretty flower could have such a ordinary name? Other handcrafted projects we did were the coffee filter peach flowers that were used in the centerpieces on the tables and all of the backdrops used at the ceremony and the reception. We crafted the backdrops with simple light pink and peach crepe paper streamers, and added a touch of Martha Stewart’s Gold Glitter Eyelash Yarn for some sparkle. My mother and sister hand-crafted all of the cake toppers and cupcake toppers; it totally topped off our look!

One of the most meaningful personal touches of the wedding was that I had the honor of wearing the veil my mother wore at her wedding twenty-six years ago. In the end, we created a memorable celebration that reflected our personalities and our desire for our guests to just have fun. And everything came together the way my husband and I dreamed it would.

Photography: Alisia Thompson Photography | Dress: Something Blue Bridal - Allure Romance Collection | Cakes: A Slice of Heaven | Ceremony Site: Fellowship of Believers | Dress Designer: Allure Bridal | Reception Site: Lakewood Rach Golf & Country Club

Every now and then I need a good ol’ dose of whimsy in my day. And this European affair, my dears, will do just the trick! It’s filled to the gills with DIY pretty and Britta Schunck didn’t miss a beat. To see even more of these two love bugs and their oh so happy day, head over here.

From Britta… This DIY-wedding topped everything that I have EVER seen before. Everything, and I mean everything, was made by the couple: the beautiful wedding dress was designed by the bride herself, even the wedding floor was built by the couple – plus, of course, all the decoration (and there was plenty of deco!) was made by the couple. The creative couple (she works at a theatre, he is an art director and graphic designer) did all the beautiful stationery as well. The save the dates and the wedding invitations that the couple had sent me before the wedding were already so extraordinary and so beautiful, that I was even scared to open the knitted envelope… and the rest of the stationery even topped that.

There were so many awesome details at this wedding (like the cuff links with the couples initials made of typewriter keys, the VW coffea van or the menus with a Polish-German language course on the back or the self-made-tablecloths and napkins – that I could talk hours about this wedding. The couple collected so much vintage china at fleamarkets, that they started their own crockery hire just after their wedding ~ Retter der Tafelrunde

From the Bride… We did everything ourselves: We sewed 90 meters of bunting and the back drop for the bar, made tons of pom poms and garlands, painted vases, made candle holders out of jars, collected vintage coffee pots, drawers, window frames, keys, doilies and books and incorporated many things from our home to create a nice vintage atmosphere. I sewed all the tablecloths and napkins and dyed them; all the vintage china was collected by us over months. I was lucky to be able to borrow all the pretty furniture from the theater I work at.

My husband created some lawn games for the guests (all DIY). There were blankets and pillows in the garden for those who wanted to relax. My husband set up a photo booth and vintage cameras which could be used by the guests. Instead of one guest book we had three, each with a different topic, and guest were invited to write, print, draw… My husband collected, printed and framed old family photos and set up a little portrait gallery of those who couldn’t be with us. One of the photos shows my grandparents on their wedding day. We also created all the decorations in the church. I tied white fabric and lace ribbons around the benches and attached paper flowers. The ceremony programs had vintage handkerchiefs in them (for happy tears). Instead of rice there was lavender for the guests to throw.

Stationery
All the paper goods were designed and printed at home by my husband and me. We created the invitation suite, menus with a Polish-German language course on the back, ceremony booklets, escort cards and different signs. We designed the patterns for the envelope liner, the invitations, the menus and escort cards and printed all of them by hand. The main pattern was inspired by traditional Polish paper cutting designs. We mixed in polka dots, chevron and triangles to keep it modern. We worked with craft paper and paper in ivory and light pink. I taught myself a bit of calligraphy – the invites, escort cards and name tags were hand written. All of the paper goods had to be both in German and Polish.

Wedding Favors
Our guests were treated to vanilla extract that we made. They also got to take home little jars with succulents my husband had grown and little felt heart brooches I had sewn.

The Wedding Cake
I decided to bake the wedding cake myself. It was a lemon-coconut cake with homemade Lemon Curd and fresh raspberries, frosted with Swiss butter cream and homemade raspberry sugar. My wonderful sister-in-law baked several cakes and tons of mini cupcakes! I baked cake pops as well. The cake toppers for all the cakes were a DIY.

The Wedding Gown
I designed my wedding dress and had it sewn by a seamstress from the theater I work at. I wanted something that was simple but with a twist; I added some color by mixing layers of ivory and apricot tulle and putting on a rose-colored sash for the reception. I hand-embroidered the organza top that I wore over the dress during the ceremony.I also made my veil, my hair piece and my necklace (incorporating pearls my mom gave me).

The Flowers
The flowers were also a DIY project. I made my own bouquet using roses, dahlias, chrysanthemums, lisianthus, astilbe, bouvardia and white veronica. I bought all flowers at the farmer’s market and my talented mom, aunt, sister-in-law and cousin made all the arrangements the day of.

The Bride’s Advice
— Stay true to yourselves. Everybody (literally) will put in their two cents worth, some will even call you crazy for “putting too much work into this”… Stick to your vision and don’t feel obligated to honor so-called “traditions” just because some people may expect it. If you plan your big day with love it will be visible – and your guests will feel welcome and enjoy themselves.
— Let people help you! I am serious! This is coming from a perfectionist/control freak who would do everything herself if she could! Living far away from friends and family, we were pretty much on our own during the whole planning/organizing/crafting extravaganza; a few days before the wedding our families arrived and helped us make everything happen. We couldn’t have done it without them!
— If you aren’t VERY organized, you will definitely need help. And I don’t necessarily mean hired help, because not every budget will allow for that. But there’s always some friend or family member who will offer help in spite of your pre-wedding craziness. Accept it!
— No matter how well you planned it all and how organized you are, on your wedding day you should let someone else worry about coordinating everything. If you are on a budget and can’t afford a professional coordinator, maybe there’s a friend who could handle everything for you. I asked a former intern of mine to be our day-of coordinator. I knew she is well organized and understands our vision, and it was great not to have to worry about everything running smoothly.
— Hire a great photographer! (Like we did!) It makes all the difference in the world!
— Last but not least: Make time for you as a couple. During all the planning it is easy to lose track of what is the most important – the person you are going to marry!

Photographer: Britta Schunck | Floral Design: DIY | Wedding Dress: DIY By Bride | Stationery: DIY | Ceremony Venue: Pfarrkirche St. Sebastian | Church: Pfarrkirche St. Sebastian | Reception Venue: Schloss Bollschweil | Bride's Shoes: Belmondo | Caterer: Bensels Biocatering | Hair + Make Up: Theater Freiburg | DJ: Maximilian (Brother of the Bride) & Maurizio (Friend of the Groom) | Bow Tie: Papier & Feder | Suit: Hugo Boss | Coffea Van: Biosk Mobil | Cufflinks: Miniblings | Decoration: DIY | Groom's Shirt: Q1 Manufaktur | Groom's Shoes: Lloyd | Suspenders: Scotch & Soda | Tablewear Rentals: Die Retter der Tafelrunde | Vintage Furniture: Theater Freiburg | Wedding Rings: Jewelrey Shop in Poland

Pale blush and gold can be as classic a combo as black and white; at least in this girl’s eyes. It’s romantic without being overly done and this particular affair photographed by Melissa Brandman so embodies that idea of easy elegance and thoughtfully crafted moments. And it’s not just the decor details, but the ceremony that included a hand-fasting and the planting of an oak tree or the Bride’s veil trimmed in lace hand-beaded by her grandmother. Details like that are what take this already beautiful day and tip it over into the unforgettable realm. Click here for even more.

Jennifer and Daniel were married on June 8, 2013 at a private estate located in Bel Air, California. The couple designed a simple, elegant outdoor wedding with a classic pale pink and gold color palette. They created an intimate, personal wedding ceremony that reflected their values and beliefs as a couple. They incorporated the ancient tradition of hand fasting ceremony, using a fabric cord to bind their hands together in marriage. The couple also planted a baby oak tree during the ceremony as a symbol of their marriage and what it will become – a strong tree with deep roots. Jennifer’s veil was edged with vintage French lace that was hand-beaded by her late grandmother and originally sewn into her mother’s wedding dress. Daniel, an art gallery owner and art dealer, enlisted the help of one of his artists to create one-of-a-kind prints as wedding favors for their guests. Jennifer’s ring was created from a 1920s art deco design and used diamonds that had been in her family for generations. Many other touches were DIY projects the bride created, such as the wildflower centerpieces featuring gold mason jars and the repurposed vintage doors for escort cards and photos.

Photographer: Melissa Brandman Photography | Wedding Coordinator: Tessa Lyn Events | Florist: Classics Flowers | Wedding Cake: Nicole Yamaguchi of Scootabaker | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids Dresses: Shareen Vintage | Caterer: Alligator Pear Catering | Makeup: Sweet Emotions Makeup Artistry | DJ: Vox DJs | Bride's Dress: Paula Varsalona | Rentals: Town And Country

For the last few years, flower crowns have risen to the tippy top of the accessory chain. But what about those of us who just don’t want to go full circle? Some of the lovely ladies I work with don’t feel comfortable wearing an entire crown but they still want that same romantic vibe. This past weekend I decided to try and make a half crown. It came out better than expected! It’s great because you can wear all of your hair down, add your half-flower-crown in the back, and still feel like a flirty flower child. It was pretty easy to make…

Gather up all your goods: your favorite florals, scissors, millinery wire, hair combs, thin (thread-like) crafting wire and a sewing needle (not shown). As far as the flowers, I personally love using wildflowers mixed with roses but you can do whatever you like! Note: you should be able to get millinery wire at a craft store. The reason I like it so much is because it’s covered by a thin white fabric so it’s not too slippery.

Cut the millinery wire to fit from ear to ear. Decide where you want your flowers to sit and cut it based on your measurement. Everyone’s head width is different so there isn’t a general length. (Best to have a friend help you with that measuring that out.)

Now take your combs and attach them to each end of your millinery wire, wrapping with the thin thread-like wire to secure. Weave your thin wire in between the teeth of your comb. I was worried that the comb would slip off the millinery wire, but it was completely secure. If you feel the need you can always add a dab of hot glue to make it even more secure.

Thread the thin wire through a sewing needle. I wanted to do this so I could pierce through my flowers and secure them to the wire. Once you poke through the base of a flower, cut the excess wire and twist it around to secure your flowers to the millinery wire. Using light-weight flowers is the way to go, I’ve learned. Heavy florals are harder to work with when it comes to securing them. Once you have all your flowers secured, pop it in the back of your hair. I suggest teasing a small section of hair at the root right where you’re going to be inserting the comb just so the crown doesn’t slip!

PS: An elegant updo in seconds, and so many more beauty & hair tutorials right here! 

I’d be lying if I said this wedding didn’t have my heart at “organic farm.” It’s just the right setting for this handmade affair, boasting farm-to-table menus and a crazy stunning view of Oregon’s Mt. Hood. But what really sealed the deal? The pretty, pretty photos from mister Michael Radford. He captured the day with pure loveliness, and I pinky promise your trip to the gallery will be oh sooooo worth it.

​From the Bride and Groom… The thing that made our wedding most special and unique was the incredible venue, a working apple and pear orchard with luscious gardens and breathtaking views of Mt Hood. The thing our guests raved most about was the farm to table family style dinner from Cultivate Catering, with local Oregon produce and fresh caught wild salmon. Most of the guests camped down the road from the venue and, following the reception, the party moved to the campground for a massive bonfire, complete with s’mores​.

​Some personal touches in our wedding were that my older brother performed the ceremony and the ring bearer carried a pillow sewn by my mom from a clothe with lacework that my great-aunt created over 70 years ago. For dessert, we chose local pies from Pauline’s Country Fresh Pies, just down the road from the venue, and ice cream from Salt and Straw, a little farm to cone shop in Portland’s Alberta Arts district, the neighborhood where we live. And our favorite thing was that most of the vendors are friends, including florist Green in Bloom, Michael Radford Photography, mixologist Kelley Swenson, and jewelry designer Gina Rios.

​​The most memorable part of the day was during the ceremony, when Ian sang a song that he wrote for me the day after we got engaged. Most people were in tears, including Ian, who had to speak one of the lines in order to make it through the song.​

​Ian and I met 10 years ago, working as treatment counselors in a residential facility for children with emotional and behavioral problems. We now run an non-profit together called My Voice Music, which Ian founded 5 years ago. Ian proposed to me on a driftwood beach on the Olympic Peninsula.

Photography: Michael Radford Photography | Coordinator: Cassandra Cass Coordinating | Florist: Green in Bloom | Dress: Allure Bridal | Brides Shoes: Toms | Jewelry: Gina Rios | Caterer: Cultivate Catering | Organic Farm: Mt. Hood Organic Farms | Paper: Paper and Pinafore | Pies: Pauline's Country Fresh Pies

I’ve pulled together a few of my must-have accessories for this Fall season, a collection of things designed to put a little pep in your step as we move towards Winter and the holidays!  I’ve had my eye on that Clare Vivier clutch for a bit now and the Nixon watch was just added to my Christmas list.  I hope you love these lovely goodies as much as I do! For more fashion inspiration, head on over to my blog A House in the Hills.

1. Tortoise Sunnies: Karen Walker | 2. Booties: Madewell | 3. Clutch: Clare Vivier | 4.  Nail Polish: Butter London in gold |  5. Watch: Nixon Rose Gold Watch | 6. Mittens: Plush Scandinavian Texting Mittens  | 7. Floppy Fedora: Rag & Bone | 8.  Lipstick: Nars Heat Wave

I may not know this darling duo, but I am fairly certain of one thing: they are a couple that really likes to have a good time.  The kind of couple who throw the world’s most beautiful celebration, complete with purple-infused florals from M.J. Design LA, fab paper goods from Minted and a whole lot of Lakers-inspired awesome captured by Harrison Long Photography.  And after the nuptials and yummy cake from Vanilla Bake Shop?  Well, there’s a crazy awesome dance party.  See it all right here in the full gallery.

And don’t miss a minute of this sweet film from Unboxed Images.  It’s lovely.

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From Harrison Long Photography… Lizsl and Geoff are an awesome couple. They are fun-loving and caring people that are always down for a good time – their wedding was nothing short of a reflection of their vibrant personalities. One of the most important things to them was to make sure that all of their guests enjoyed themselves that day. Not only was their wedding absolutely gorgeous, but it truly was a celebration.

Located on the waterfront of Santa Monica beach, Casa Del Mar provided a beautiful backdrop for a modern-chic wedding. Aesthetically it is sophisticated and elegant, and yet at the same time it’s true to its location and holds a cool and casual beach feel to it. It supplied the perfect juxtaposition for Lizsl and Geoff to celebrate their wedding and mix contemporary with vintage for a jubilant party. Libations were free flowing well before the ceremony commenced and cocktail hour featured a whiskey and sausage tasting table. Lizsl and Geoff are huge LA Kings fans. Midway through cocktail hour they surprised their guests with a special appearance by Bailey, the 6 foot lion who wears a number 72 jersey because that’s the average temperature in LA. Upon entrance, Bailey caused a couple near-faintings, held a baby, blessed the whiskey tasting area, and got the crowd revved up. Why Bailey?  That’s just how Lizsl and Geoff roll.

The reception was a mix of modern and vintage. In the middle of the Parisian chandelier ceiling covered ballroom, the head table was a vintage farm table with eclectic chairs. Guest table numbers held a bit of levity to them. Instead of the conventional sequentially ordered seating assignments, table numbers were randomly numbered with glimpses into the lives of Lizsl and Geoff. There was table number 496 with the caption underneath it that read “cost of Geoff’s most recent traffic ticket” and then there was table number 2.1652233 that read “number of times Lizsl and Geoff cry during Downtown Abbey. Per episode.” Each table was different, including table number 234622 which read “Our secret passcode for everything. Just kidding.” below. Even the dessert bar had its own unique touch with a combination of weathered wood crates, milk-glass cake stands, magenta uplighting, bird cages and vintage tables that held delectable desserts. The dance floor got kicked off early with the 80’s band Fast Times covering everything from Joy Division, to the Cure to New Order. Nothing quite gets you energized to cut some rug and shake what you’ve been blessed with, than dancing your head off to “Take on Me” or the Idol’s “Dancing with Myself”. All in all, it was a wedding that fit Lizsl and Geoff perfectly. A blend of love, modern elegance and a whole lot of party.

From the Bride + Groom… We wanted the theme of our wedding to be centered on love and celebration. Of course our love for each other, and family and our many close friends. And also for Geoffrey’s two sons. And for LA, where we live and thrive. The wedding colors were different shades of purple, like the Lakers. Bailey, the LA King’s Mascot was there too! A long time ago, it was a toss up: elope or the wedding. We know now we made the right choice! Throughout the night we heard people say they had so much fun — and that’s all we could have asked for.

Photography: Harrison Long Photography | Cinematography: Unboxed Images | Floral Design: M.J. Design LA | Cake: Vanilla Bake Shop | Invitations: Minted | Wedding Shoes: Anthropologie | Makeup: Chiali Meng | Lighting: G2 Audio and Lighting | Entertainment: LA Kings Mascot Bailey | Band: Fast Times | Wedding Venue: Casa Del Mar | Ceremony + Cocktail Hour Musicians: Aaron & Jane | DJ/MC: Dean Henderson | Dinnerware Rentals: The Vintage Table Co. | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Table Rentals: Town And Country Rentals | Wedding Planners:: A Classic Celebration

Behind every feature on SMP is a wonderful story. A story that starts with two people not knowing each other and then not knowing what to do without each other. I can’t get enough of it, which is why I spend my days lost in love stories like this one. And when you get to do so through images as gorgeous as these by Jewel Chenoweth Photography, It’s not a bad way to spend the day. I highly recommend you doing the same, so be sure to read the whole story below, and catch all the images right here.

From Jewel… A swoon worthy, smooches filled, peaches and sun rays, oh la la la E-Session just 9 days after their engagement. Amanda and Kym are deliciously in love and their engagement session fell on the first day of Spring where the sun shined down upon them. The first rays of sunshine on the first day of Spring in the northern suburbs of Adelaide, South Australia, this sweet little Engagement Session was the end of their first week of being engaged.

Amanda and Kym met on the side of the road when her car broke down, a little over a year on and Kym was pushing aside Amanda’s half eaten rack of roast lamb at a restaurant, flustered with nerves and unable to wait for dessert, announcing “I couldn’t think of better woman to have by my side for the rest of my life, will you marry me?”

From The Bride…I was on the way home from a gym session with a good friend of mine, driving down Main north road at peek hour traffic is a hassle in its self but my little 1992 nissan pulsar decided to pack up on me. My friend had to get home for her son as it was almost child care pick up time and could not wait for the tow truck to come, So she decided to ring this handsome young man whom I now call my fiance’. I was annoyed that my car had broken down and did not feel like talking so i just glum-fully stood near a pole while Kym came and collected my friend.

A few months down the track after a Facebook request of course (seems to be the way of meet and greet these days) we got to talking and decided to go out together for a day down Harndorf. We had spent a majority of the day down there and without being said both didn’t want to leave each others company. So, we ended up down the beach ( where may I add the waves were the biggest I’ve seen in my whole life) If it was not for Kym that day I would have possibly drowned. Yes the waves were that big. Now in real life, movie scenes just don’t play out all that magical but as the waves were crashing around us it seemed like the world was frozen as we shared our first kiss.

A few months went on (6 to be exact) and Kym surprised me with a 2-night stay at the Arkabar in Norwood and on the second night took me to a little coffee lounge on Melbourne street named the Elephant Walk. Like a fairy tale in a dimmed set scene Kym went on to tell me he loves me and would love nothing more then to start a relationship. Of course I did not hesitate. The next month we moved in together. Which now, fast forwards us a year of living together and now for the proposal.

Just this Friday gone the 23rd August, Kym planned a night of may I say pure indulgence. We stayed at the Jacobs Creek Retreat which is just breath taking, we spent a majority of the day touring the vineyards and just having the most romantic day even though nothing was planned out everything just fell into place. Even though I was extremely exhausted from all the wine tasting and traveling, it was time to get ready for dinner reservations at Vitners Bar and Grill (don’t let the name fool you this was fine dining at its best). As our mains came out Kym thought to himself that he would ask over dessert but that’s when extreme nerves kicked in and he realised he had to do it now and it couldn’t wait other wise it may have gone very wrong. After going to the toilet to piece himself together he came back and pushed aside my half eaten lamb rack. Where it was then said he could not think of a better woman to have by his side for life and then out came the ring and Amanda Maxwell, Will you marry me? Of course I said yes.

I think our story is just magical and we are just two peas in a pod. Not to mention my whole life my brothers and sisters have been saying to me that I am the brown cow of the family so how now brown cow. The day I marry Kym I will be Amanda Brown so my life really has just done a full loop in my brothers and sisters eyes.

Photographer: Jewel Chenoweth Photography | Flowers: Jewel Chenoweth | Dress: Caroline Morgan | Ring: Angus & Coote | Makeup: MAXXX Beauty

When it comes to choosing the gown in which you’ll marry your one and only, look no further than Allure Bridals. And with the introduction of the stunningly gorgeous spring 2014 collections, the options are more breathtaking than ever before — I know, it’s hard to believe! Featuring soft, light cotton lace and etherial English net as well as rich satin and intricate Swarovski crystal beading, you’ll have a hard time choosing just one!

On-trend and beautifully styled, as always, the spring 2014 Allure Bridals collections show gowns with modern silhouettes as well as classic, Hollywood glamour style dresses. With details that are spot on and incredible and comfortable construction, you simply cannot go wrong with an Allure Bridals gown. And get this, you can now be sure your man is dressed to the nines with Allure Bridal’s slate blue tuxedos,  perfect for making your groom the center of attention (next to you, of course!)

Besides brides + grooms, Allure Bridals can also make sure your maids are styled to perfection with a beautiful selection of dresses in tons of color and style options!  You’re totally smitten, am I right?! Head over here to see the collection in its entirety and get to shopping, my dears! xo

This Starved Rock State Park wedding is easy to love for a lot of reasons, but standing tall and proud above the rest?  The bride and groom, two adorable sweethearts who happen to be smiling with pure, unadulterated joy in each and every image.  I’m talking the kind of love that literally bursts from your computer screen, people.  It’s awesome.  And when you pair all of that happiness with a gallery of pretty captured by Laura Fisher Photography, it’s a guaranteed day of swooning.  Join me there for more.

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From Laura Fisher Photography… A cool summer’s day, crisp and fresh after a spell of rain, set the air for Heather and Tammer’s quiet, bespoke forest wedding at Starved Rock State Park & Trails. Married beneath the giant pines, Tammer and Heather (or–as they like to collectively call themselves now that they’re married–“Tethered”) celebrated their big day with natural touches abound: herbal boutonnieres, flowered bridesmaid frocks, spice jar favors for the guests, and lavender blossoms for throwing during the recessional. The reception at Starved Rock Lodge ended the night on a cozy note, with wine and lavender buttercream cake in front of the giant fireplace in the main hall of the Lodge.

For this San Francisco couple, it’s no wonder they were drawn to get married in the one corner of Illinois that looks like you’ve been magically transported to the mountain woodlands of Northern California!

From the Bride… We met when we were sophomores in high school, dated for two weeks, broke up, and then began a year long battle of Tammer trying to win me back. At times we were speaking daily (lots of international calls!), and at other times not speaking at all. When my long term relationship fell apart, I moved back into my parents’ home outside Sacramento, and Tammer coincidentally moved to SF. It was magic from then on!

The inspiration behind our day was the location… Starved Rock State Park. It was the centerpiece of our wedding, because it was a place that we had visited when we first met in high school. It holds lots of memories for us. I wanted to incorporate herbs and spices into the ceremony and reception as much as possible, to fit with the natural setting–and, well, cooking is kinda my thing.

For wedding favors we bought many different kinds of herbs in bulk from Penzey’s–coriander, aleppo, thyme, tarragon, you name it. We ordered spice jars with cork lids online and had a designer on Etsy create the labels. I had a favor-making party with my bridal party to get all the jars filled!

Photographer: Laura Fisher Photography | Wedding Coordinator: Tiffany Sigala | Florist: Mary's Special Touch | Wedding Dress: Amy Kuschel | Cake: Starved Rock Lodge | Invitations: The Nesting Project | Ceremony Venue: Starved Rock State Park and Trails | Reception Venue: Starved Rock Lodge | Engagement Ring: Vintage - bride's grandmother's | Bridesmaids Dresses: Amsale | Caterer: Starved Rock Lodge | Hair and Makeup: Luscious Moi | DJ: Get Up and Dance | Wedding Favors: Penzey's Spices | Men's Ties: Café Coton San Francisco | Groom's Tux: Indochino | Placecards + Table Markers: The Nesting Project | Programs: The Nesting Project | Save-the-Dates: The Nesting Project

I adore each and every day on SMP Canada, but today is extra special. Today I get to share the wedding of a dear friend of mine (who is also somewhat responsible for me meeting my now hubby), and boy is it a pretty one. Not that I am surprised, that’s just how this little lady operates. Kelly has an understated elegance she carries with her everywhere she goes, and it played out beautifully as she tied the knot to her Mr. Right. Their lovely lake cottage set the scene for a perfect day (despite a few snafus) and was filled with details that had so much heart I could burst. It’s prettiness defined, and they deserve nothing less. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness you two, I couldn’t be happier for y’all…See all the gorgeous images from Studio G. R. Martin Photography right here.

Finding a gown for an outdoor cottage wedding is challenging. I didn’t want anything too fancy or heavy, yet you I wanted to avoid the typical chiffon destination-style gown. After 6 or 7 bridal shops I found the perfect elegant form-fitting dress at With Love Bridal Boutique.

Birch and blue hydrangeas were the focus point of our decorations. We handcrafted everything from birch trees that were cut down on our property. Our biggest creation was the birch bar, and the theme was supported by our birch candles, birch tags for the mason jars, birch cupcake stands and birch platters.

Outdoor weddings can have it’s challenges when it come to weather!! The Friday afternoon before our wedding, a massive storm that sparked tornado warnings, swept through southern Ontario and Quebec leaving over 400,000 customers without power. Our task turned from setting up decorations in the tent to “saving the tent”…..Trees fell down all over and on our property. One tree landed on a guest’s car! Thankfully our tents did not fly away but were partially damaged. We were left out of power and obviously, a little shaken up!

Our families and bridal party bond grew stronger together and made the best of the situation. We rented 6 generators in order to be able to power the DJ booth, the kitchen (that was to be used by the caterers) and all the lighting. The bridesmaid and I were able to locate 4 big Hydro-Quebec trucks on the highway, pull them over and convinced them (ok, bribed them, even with brownies…) to come fix our power first. We must have been blessed by a hydro worker with a big heart because our power came back by 8pm the next day just in time for the cake cutting. The generators worked great until then and our 100 guests had been fed ..

An outdoor wedding at a cottage is very challenging to plan. You have to think of everything! Tent and table rentals, porta-potties and hand washing station, lighting and accent lighting, dishes and cutlery, entertainment, alcohol and beverages, safety because we were next to a lake, etc. More importantly, you need to find the right vendors that are willing to drive to your cottage and help create your vision. Overall, having a cottage wedding was more work than we anticipated (and more expensive!), but in the end it was more special and personable than we could have ever imagined.

Photography: Studio G.R. Martin Photography | Floral Design: Fleurs Illico | Cake: La Boite à Gateaux | Wedding Bands: Jubilee | Catering: The Mixing Bowl | Suits: Moore's Clothing | Bride's Jewelry: With Love Bridal Boutique | Bridemaids Dresses: J.Crew | Tents and Rentals: Big Top Tents | Wedding Invitation: Studiono8

I probably ask my husband if we could go to the South of France more than most people ask their husbands to take out the trash. I am borderline obsessed with this place I’ve never been, so when I see a wedding like this one by Adam Alex I literally drop everything I’m doing and send it to my hubby. Because surely if he sees a wedding this lovely in a setting this stunning, we’ll be hopping on a plane in no time. See it all here.

Photography: Adam Alex Photography | Event Planning: Lavender and Rose | Floral Design: Wayne Riley Flowers | Wedding Dress: Anita Massarella | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Wedding Venue: Château Grimaldi

Three months doesn’t seem like nearly enough time to plan your wedding, but if you’re two incredibly crafty sweethearts, it most definitely can be done.  Case in point?  These two cuties, who tackled every last aspect of their Big Day with some serious talent and beautifying skills that are sort of jaw-dropping.  I’m talking everything from burlap flags to mason jar centerpieces.  Add in the ever-lovely Tracy Enoch to capture all of the pretty and, well.  Happy Thursday, lovelies! Click here for more.

From the Bride… August 10, 2013 could not have been more perfect. I married my high school sweet heart and my best friend. We started dating last year, July 18, 2012 and the next year we were married. I guess I just know a good thing when I see it!

The wedding planning process was chaotic to say the least. We had a three month engagement which meant we were constantly moving. Our budget was a tight one. Luckily we like crafting. Needless to say, the wedding DIY section on Pinterest served us well during the planning process! We handmade all the burlap flags, the fence divider, table numbers, designed and assembled the program fans, wrapped the silverware, decorated the mason jars, and painted and assembled the pickets.

We decided that we wanted to stray from the traditional a little and make time for a few intentional and meaningful events. We wanted to be able to take communion together for the first time as man and wife during the ceremony and our first look included exchanging handwritten vows, taking turns washing each other’s feet, and prayer. The inspiration behind our decision for these events is simply Christ. He plays a huge role in our lives and we wanted to dedicate our marriage to Him.

Foot washing, although it may not be totally relevant today, was used in the bible as a symbol of humble love and sacrifice, and there is nothing like handwritten vows. Although we both wrote ours the morning of, exchanging those words was one of my favorite little moments from our day. I couldn’t stop crying, it was so perfect. The reception was beautiful and everything that I wanted it to be. We danced our last dance while all of our guests lined up for our exit outside, and we had a beautiful sparkler sendoff. August 10, 2013 is a day I will always remember as the most beautiful and perfect day of my life!

Photography: Tracy Enoch Photography | Cinematography: Justin Lowe Productions | Flowers: Costco | Wedding Dress: Bridal Boutique Of Lewisville | Ceremony Venue: Farmers Branch Historical Park | Reception Venue: The Plaza Arts Center | Bridesmaid Shoes: Designer Shoe Warehouse | Bridesmaid Dresses: Altar'd State | Catering: Dickey's Barbecue Pit | Groom's Suit: K&G | Suits: Men's Wearhouse | DJ/MC: DJ Connections | Photo Booth: Photo Booth Dallas

This adorable duo came to their talented team with the idea that was a little bit nautical, a little bit vintage-travel inspired and sprinkled with southern charm – and boy their team did they deliver. With Andrea Harper at the design helm, rentals from Gray Harper Event Maker, a gorgeous cake from Samantha Sanford and stunning pictures from Jade and Matthew Take Pictures – it’s safe to say their engagement session is in a league of its own. I can’t even wait to see their wedding! See it all here.

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Photography: Jade + Matthew Take Pictures | Event Design: Gray Harper Event Maker | Floral Design: Gray Harper Event Maker | Cake: Lavender & Honey Designs | Rentals: Gray Harper Event Maker

I’m fighting every urge in my body to let the girly “oh my gods” gush out of me right now. This wedding, from Lauren Methia Photography, has done it. The couple, the flowers from Winston Flowers, the beautiful sunset on the beach, the colors… it’s brought out my inner wedding nerd, and I’m loving it. Everything is so beyond perfect, it’s kind of ridiculous.

Cinematography: Imagique Weddings | Floral Design: Winston Flowers | Makeup: Dana Dodson | Hair: Kristen Moshiek | Baker: The Casual Gourmet | DJ/Music: DJ Yogi, Boston Sound and Light | Mansion: Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Course

Try as I may, there is no way I could keep this wedding short. It’s sweet… oh it’s beautifully sweet, but I couldn’t risk you not visiting the beautiful gallery from Dani Leigh Photography, so I tried to pack as many stunning shots as I could into this post. But please, don’t let that stop you from visiting the gallery! It’s filled to the brim with beautiful blooms from Romance of Flowers, lovely ‘maids all in a row, and a couple so beautiful you won’t be able to tear yourself away.

From the stunning bride… The best part of planning a long distance wedding is truly trusting in those that are there to make your day special. James and I were so lucky to have amazing individuals there with us from our wonderful parents, to our amazing florist: Victoria, our new friend and photographer: Dani and our unbelievably talented band: Bachelor Boys Band.

I have always been a homebody, and my parents never thought I would last when I decided to venture to college in Madison, Wisconsin from Baltimore; to their surprise I happily endured my four years. James, a Madison local, and I met in the spring of 2007 and knew from the start there was something different about our relationship. It was not until the following fall, with some fairly obvious coaxing on my part, that James relented and asked me on a date; from that moment forward, we have rarely been apart. Our relationship has survived through five moves in Illinois and a cross country move to California, because of the calm that James brings to our lives and support from our friends and family.

James proposed on the beach in Half Moon Bay, California and we immediately realized that while difficult, a traditional hometown wedding was what we desired. With that decision, we began a whirlwind of living long distance for seven months, wedding planning, and starting our lives in California complete with purchasing our first home and beginning new jobs.

Every aspect of our wedding was beyond our wildest dreams. My Mom handmade table numbers, runner for the head table and painted picture frames, while my Dad made the place cards and made sure the timeline was perfected, even providing small laminated cards for those who wanted them on the day of.

James and I have been to numerous weddings, but still had no concept of the organization required to plan a wedding without a formal wedding planner. Many of our big choices were simple, our venue choice: Evergreen Museum and Library was a place I drove by on my way to school growing up, Victoria Clausen is an amazing floral designer who I was lucky enough to help at weddings and my mother still works for. We chose Dani Leigh Photography for her beautiful lighting and wonderful personality. From the beginning I knew I wanted blush pinks and navy blues. In my meetings with Victoria I provided her the colors that I did not want, but completely trusted how she, along with my mother and our family friend and photographer for Victoria, Kakki Morrison, would oversee and complete the wedding look. Evergreen is a beautiful place that deserves to be enhanced rather than overtaken, so we worked with our venue, the beautiful brick walls and wooden carriage house. Many of the aspects of the wedding were chosen for their small price tag but big impact: the wooden farm table for the head table, the unique table cloths for cocktails, dinner and dancing, the lights above the dance floor and the paper flower balls providing a backdrop for the band.

From start to finish we had so much support and so much faith in everyone that was with us on that day or provided us with beautiful memories. I have heard that, when the wedding is over, some brides are sad. While I could be distracted from feeling sad by a 10 week old puppy, James and I prefer to have the memory of our wedding and love to reflect on how special the day was and how lucky we are to have had such a perfectly flawless wedding.

Photographer: Dani Leigh Photography | Floral and event design: Victoria Clausen Floral Events | Bridesmaids dresses: Garnish Boutique | Caterer: Linwoods | Makeup: Amanda Ritchey Bridal & Beauty | Band: Bachelor Boys Band | Bridal gown: Garnish Boutique | Ceremony and Reception location: Evergreen Museum And Library | Linens: Tabletoppers | Robes: Modern Kimono

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If you want my opinion, there’s NO place on earth more stunning than Tuscany. So grabbing your beloved for an engagement sesh amongst those rolling hills and olive trees? Well…I can’t think of a more perfect scenario. Unless, of course, you have Amanda K there to capture every second. She managed to snap some of the most romantic shots we’ve seen, and I think we’ll be obsessing over this one for a good, long while.

From Amanda K Photography… We could not have had a more perfect recipe for this session. The Tuscan light, olive groves, two incredible people in love and some shots from their first villa in Chianti, the Villa La Palagina.

Photography: Amanda K Photography | Dress: BHLDN | Hair + Makeup: Sofia Sweet | Groom's Shirt: Brooks Brothers | Groom's Shoes: Cole Haan | Pants: Rag & Bone | Tie: Penguin